The year between undergrad and grad school

I'm planning on going to grad school a year after I graduate so I'm trying to figure out something productive to do during that year. I thought I should just get a job for the experience but most ads mention the position is part of a two year program or there is a tone that they want the candidate to be with them for a while. I need references from these people for when I apply to grad school but I don't want them to be pissed that I'm leaving after a year. I would essentially have to break the news to them within 3 months of starting to get my references in on time.

Should I apply to these jobs anyways? I really don't have any other options because I need an income. Maybe I should get a really long internship? Any input is appreciated.

8 Comments
 

I'm going for a quant/math finance type of degree so it will only take 1-1.5 years to complete. I am under the impression that work experience is not terribly important compared to getting an MBA.

 
Best Response
markhobbus I am under the impression that work experience is not terribly important compared to getting an MBA.
work experience is VERY necessary in order to get into a top 10 mba.
djfiiiIf you have an interest in living overseas, check out teaching English for a year in some country you'd like to visit. I have some friends that went to Japan, and they loved it. You'd have to inquire as to whether being there for only 1 year is an option, but if so, having some international experience on your resume - especially from a cultural perspective (i.e. having lived there), will always be with you and could benefit in ways you can't see yet.

How would you place living abroad on your resume? I might be in a similar situation and i could definitely visit my family in Poland for a few months and try to do there something work or volunteer wise. Ideas would be appreciated.

 

If you have an interest in living overseas, check out teaching English for a year in some country you'd like to visit. I have some friends that went to Japan, and they loved it. You'd have to inquire as to whether being there for only 1 year is an option, but if so, having some international experience on your resume - especially from a cultural perspective (i.e. having lived there), will always be with you and could benefit in ways you can't see yet.

 

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